Vase c. 1758 - 1769

This porcelain vase was made by the Derby Porcelain Factory, which operated between 1748 and 1848. The factory flourished due to the fashion for elaborate, decorative porcelain pieces in wealthy households. The vase’s design, with its asymmetrical form and floral embellishments, reflects the Rococo style popular in 18th-century Europe. Rococo moved away from the symmetry and austerity of the Baroque, instead embracing a more playful, ornate aesthetic. The delicate floral motifs and pastel hues speak to a culture of refinement and leisure, reflecting the aristocratic tastes of the period. Examining the history of institutions like the Derby Porcelain Factory, and the social conditions that made such decorative objects desirable, deepens our understanding of the cultural values of the time. Research into archival records and period publications can reveal the complex interplay between artistic production and social life. Ultimately, the vase serves as a testament to the power of art as a reflection of its social and institutional context.